NBA Power Rankings, summer edition: Knicks, Nuggets are contenders; Celtics, Pacers slide - The Athletic

The Athletic has released post-free agency NBA Power Rankings, analyzing team outlooks based on offseason moves until the next rankings in October. Key summaries include:

Oklahoma City Thunder (Last Rank: 1): The reigning champions retained their entire rotation, extending stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren. They re-signed Jaylin Williams and Ajay Mitchell, drafted center Thomas Sorber (trading Dillon Jones to make room), and expect Nikola Topić to be healthy. Minor concerns exist about Jalen Williams' wrist surgery recovery and Sorber's readiness after injury.

New York Knicks (Last Rank: 3): The focus shifts to new coach Mike Brown reshaping a core that reached the Eastern Conference finals. Jordan Clarkson (addition) should upgrade over Cameron Payne (departure), and Guerschon Yabusele (addition) is seen as an upgrade over Precious Achiuwa (departure). While the offense may improve, defensive questions persist around Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. The team is expected to add more frontcourt and wing depth.

Cleveland Cavaliers (Last Rank: 5): Cleveland's major move was acquiring Lonzo Ball via trade (departing Isaac Okoro) to offset Ty Jerome's loss and bolster ball-handling, passing, shooting, and defense. Ball's role may be crucial early with Darius Garland recovering from toe surgery. Re-signed Sam Merrill. Like New York, Cleveland could add players for frontcourt/wing insurance.

Minnesota Timberwolves (Last Rank: 4): Minnesota successfully re-signed key frontcourt players Julius Randle and Naz Reid. While Nickeil Alexander-Walker departed, Terrence Shannon Jr., Jaylen Clark, and Rob Dillingham are candidates to fill his minutes. They drafted center Joan Beringer to replace Luka Garza. The loss of Josh Minott creates a need for another forward. Overall, the team is positioned to contend in the West after consecutive conference finals losses.

Denver Nuggets (Last Rank: 6): Denver saw significant roster turnover. Departures include Russell Westbrook, DeAndre Jordan, Vlatko Cancar, Dario Šarić (traded), and Michael Porter Jr. (traded). Additions via trade are Tim Hardaway Jr., Bruce Brown, Jonas Valančiūnas, and Cameron Johnson.